Academics propose special grant for the poor

Johannesburg – A group of academics have proposed a special R1 000 monthly grant for poor households and individuals, as government implemented measures to alleviate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the local economy.

The academics wrote to President Cyril Ramaphosa calling for all evictions due to failure to meet rent obligations to be banned during the 21 days lockdown period.

One of the academics, senior lecturer at Wits University’s School of Business Sciences, Lumkile Mondi said: “We are saying in addition to all the support that has come through, government and our social partners, we perhaps need to address the others who might be missed, so we may capture everyone who may not have access to any sources of income.”

Some of the measures implemented by government included a Solidarity Fund to help small businesses and tax relief for those earning less than R7 500. Some municipalities were also dropping food packages to poor households, and banks were now offering payment holidays for their customers.